How is the Maharashtra Revenue Department Ensuring Transparency?
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Synopsis
The Maharashtra Revenue Department has taken a significant step by forming Divisional Vigilance Squads and a state-level committee to enhance transparency and accountability. This initiative, announced ahead of the government's anniversary, aims to address complaints effectively and bolster public trust in governance.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra Revenue Department forms vigilance squads.
- Commitment to transparency and accountability.
- Complaints to be addressed swiftly.
- State-level committee for oversight.
- Boosting public trust in governance.
Mumbai, Dec 4 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Revenue Department has established Divisional Vigilance Squads and a state-level committee aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and a citizen-focused approach within its operations.
This decision was announced just before the one-year anniversary of the BJP-led MahaYuti government on December 5.
According to Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Vigilance Squads will be set up under each Divisional Commissioner to carry out thorough and timely inquiries into grievances regarding officers and staff involved in revenue matters such as minor minerals, land records, stamp duty, land measurement, and related functions. These teams are expected to finalize preliminary investigations and report their findings to the relevant authority within 30 days for standard complaints and within 15 days for particularly serious issues.
“Additionally, a state-level committee, which I will chair as the Revenue Minister, is being formed to consistently review the effectiveness of these Vigilance teams and suggest necessary enhancements,” stated Bawankule.
The Minister emphasized that this initiative represents a crucial step in their commitment to transparent, responsive, and efficient governance as they celebrate the first anniversary of the government.
Minister Bawankule finalized the operational procedures, resulting in a Government Resolution issued on Thursday, instructing Divisional Commissioners to set up these vigilance squads within 15 days.
The establishment of these squads is aimed at ensuring a thorough investigation into serious complaints against Revenue Department personnel regarding irregularities in land measurement, minor minerals, stamp duty, and other related activities. The Minister stated that a proper and unbiased inquiry into such issues would bolster the credibility of the administration.
The government resolution indicates that seven new vigilance squads will be created at the level of the Divisional Commissioner.
These squads will be led by the Additional Commissioner (Revenue), and will include the Member Secretary: Deputy Collector (Revenue) along with other members such as Deputy Collector, District Superintendent of Land Records, District Mining Officer, Joint District Registrar, and an officer of Tehsildar rank.
“A minimum of four officers must be present for any inquiry conducted by the squad. The squad will also be empowered to conduct investigations in another division if necessary,” stated the government resolution.
A six-member state-level committee, led by Minister Bawankule, has been formed to ensure the diligence and consistency of the vigilance operations.
The committee will include the Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue), one Joint Secretary, and three Deputy Secretaries.
Minister Bawankule asserted that this initiative will significantly enhance the speed and effectiveness of primary investigations, on-site inquiries, document verification, and report submission for serious complaints regarding minor minerals, land, stamp duty, land measurement, and related activities.
Point of View
The establishment of the Divisional Vigilance Squads by the Maharashtra Revenue Department reflects a proactive approach to governance. This initiative not only aims to address public grievances but also enhances the credibility of the administration. By implementing timely inquiries and regular reviews, the government is taking a commendable step towards ensuring accountability and transparency in its operations.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Divisional Vigilance Squads?
The Divisional Vigilance Squads are teams formed by the Maharashtra Revenue Department to conduct timely inquiries into complaints against officers and employees regarding revenue matters.
Who will lead the state-level committee?
The state-level committee will be chaired by Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.
How quickly will complaints be addressed?
Preliminary inquiries will be completed within 30 days for regular complaints and within 15 days for serious complaints.
What issues will the squads investigate?
The squads will investigate complaints related to minor minerals, land records, stamp duty, and land measurement among other revenue-related matters.
How many members are in the state-level committee?
The state-level committee consists of six members, including the Additional Chief Secretary and several Deputy Secretaries.
